MLS has officially added Miami and Chicago as expansion franchises in 1998.
o Miami’s team will be operated by Ken Horowitz, a communications and cell phone entrepreneur, who paid a $20 million franchise fee.
o The Miami team will play in the Orange Bowl, where MLS is to sign a 10-year lease with the city of Miami.
o The Chicago team will be operated by the Anschutz Chicago Soccer. Railroad tycoon Philip Anschutz owns the Colorado Rapids as well as the NHL’s Los Angeles Kings.
o An understanding has been reached with the Chicago Park District for a five-year lease for Soldier Field.
Formal press conferences are expected in the two cities within the next 30 days.
A international match between Brazil and Mexico is scheduled to be played in Miami April 30. An international tournament is expected to be staged in Chicago and Miami this summer.